Queen Elizabeth National Park Safaris

Overview

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited national park, covering approximately 1,978 square kilometers. Established in 1952, it showcases a remarkable variety of ecosystems, from open savannahs and tropical rainforests to wetlands and crater lakes. The park thrives with diverse wildlife, including the famed tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, numerous elephant and buffalo herds, and an unparalleled array of bird species. Its proximity to the Rwenzori Mountains and iconic Kazinga Channel make it a key highlight on Uganda’s safari circuit. Whether enjoying a classic game drive, a boat cruise packed with hippos and crocodiles, or the chance to observe chimpanzees in the lush Kyambura Gorge, visitors are guaranteed an immersive experience in one of East Africa’s premier safari destinations.

Scenery

Queen Elizabeth National Park spans a mosaic of savannah plains, crater lakes, and wetlands framed by the Rwenzori Mountains to the north. The Kazinga Channel flows through the heart of the park, drawing large concentrations of wildlife to its shores. Volcanic explosion craters create dramatic landscapes, some filled with salty or freshwater lakes that attract flamingos and other aquatic life. The vast grasslands, punctuated by acacia trees, provide classic African safari vistas, while the Ishasha sector’s fig trees are famous for harboring tree-climbing lions.

Dry and rainy seasons

Climate

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in Uganda’s western region, near the equator, and experiences a tropical savannah climate. The park’s temperatures typically range between 17°C (63°F) and 30°C (86°F). The area has two distinct rainy seasons: March to May and September to November are generally considered the peak rainy periods, though rain can occur sporadically throughout the year. The dry seasons are from December to February and June to August, when rainfall is lower and daytime temperatures can be a bit higher. Overall, the park remains warm and fairly humid, but the roads and trails are most easily navigable during the drier months.

Dry seasons:: December to February and June to August
Rainy seasons:: March to May and September to November

Landscape and weather conditions at Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda

Activities

Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park

From classic game drives and boat cruises to chimpanzee tracking, here are the top things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park for every type of traveler.

Game Drives: Traverse the park’s savannah plains in search of elephants, lions, buffaloes, and more. Popular areas include the Kasenyi Plains and Ishasha sector.
Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel: A highlight of Queen Elizabeth, this guided cruise offers close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds along the channel banks.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge: Explore the “Valley of Apes” with rangers to spot chimpanzees and other forest dwellers in a dramatic riverine forest setting.
Bird Watching: With a record number of bird species, specialized birding walks or boat trips can be arranged to find rarities and migratory species.
Nature Walks & Forest Hikes: A chance to spot smaller mammals, birds, and unique vegetation, often led by knowledgeable local guides.
Lion Tracking Research Experience: Accompany researchers on a unique safari to track and learn about the park’s lion populations, using locator equipment.
Visit to Katwe Salt Lake: Witness traditional salt-mining methods in this centuries-old industry and learn about the local community’s heritage.

Best time to visit

The dry seasons—December to February and June to August, are often regarded as the best times to visit. During these months, grasses are shorter, making it easier to spot wildlife, and animals tend to gather around water sources. The Queen Elizabeth National Park is still rewarding during the wetter months, particularly for bird enthusiasts, but be prepared for potential rainfall and muddier roads.

High season (Peak Tourist Periods):: June to August and December to February. These months see more visitors due to favorable weather and holiday travel. Accommodations and activities may be in higher demand, so booking in advance is recommended.
Low season (Less Busy Months):: March to May and September to November. Rain is more frequent, so fewer travelers come. Accommodations may offer discounted rates, and the lush greenery enhances photography opportunities.

Scenery at Queen Elizabeth National Park during a recommended travel season

Which animals could you encounter

Wildlife Spotlights

Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from iconic African mammals to vibrant bird species. Visitors can expect to encounter:

Big Game:: Elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and a variety of antelopes (Uganda kobs, topis, waterbucks).
Famous Tree-Climbing Lions:: In the Ishasha sector, lions can often be seen lounging in fig trees.
Hippos & Crocodiles:: Abundant in the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George.
Primates:: Chimpanzees are found in Kyambura Gorge (though sightings can be less reliable than in Kibale).
Birdlife:: With over 600 bird species, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, featuring everything from African fish eagles to pelicans and flamingos in some crater lakes.

Itineraries

Related itineraries for Queen Elizabeth National Park

Check similar available itineraries that include Queen Elizabeth National Park or explore other famous destinations from our tailor made itineraries options.

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Discover our curated list of tailor-made itineraries suited to every travel preference.

Accommodation options

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of lodging.

Budget

Simba Safari Lodge

Simba Safari Lodge sits on a hill near Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering sweeping savannah views. Guests can venture on guided game drives or boat safaris to encounter Uganda’s diverse wildlife. With comfortable accommodations and friendly hospitality, it’s an ideal base for exploring this iconic safari destination.

Mid-range

Acacia Wilderness Lodge

Acacia Wilderness Lodge overlooks the sweeping savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering an intimate safari retreat. Guests can spot abundant wildlife on guided game drives or boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel. With comfortable cottages and genuine Ugandan hospitality, it provides a memorable wilderness escape.

High end

Mweya Safari Lodge

Mweya Safari Lodge rests in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, boat cruises, and abundant wildlife sightings. With comfortable accommodations and warm Ugandan hospitality, it ensures a memorable safari getaway.

Important note!

Properties shown reflect our standard selection for this itinerary. Depending on availability at time of booking, a comparable lodge of the same category may be used instead.

Frequently asked questions

Lodges & Accommodation

The accommodation options include lodges in the budget, mid-range and high-end categories. You can make your choice during your booking.

A safari lodge is a nature-focused accommodation near wildlife-rich areas, offering a blend of comfort, modern facilities, eco-conscious design, and access to safari activities such as game drives and guided walks.

Absolutely! Safari accommodations prioritize safety, often featuring security measures such as fences, night guards, and protocols for wildlife encounters. If you specifically prefer a fenced lodge, please let us know when booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your request.

Most high-end and mid-range lodges provide electricity, usually through solar power or generators. Budget lodges may use lanterns or have limited generator hours. In more remote areas, lodges may not offer 24-hour electricity and may turn off their generators between midnight and dawn or while guests are on game drives. If you need 24-hour electricity, please specify this when booking, and our team will assist you accordingly.

Most mid-range and high-end lodges offer Wi-Fi, though it is often limited to common areas and may be slower in remote locations.

This depends on your group size. For a small group (up to 4 people) accommodation can be booked in a short notice offering more flexibility. For larger groups it is recommended to book 3 months in advance if you plan traveling during the low season and 6 months in advance during the high season. High seasons are from Dec - Feb and Jun - Aug, while low seasons are from Mar - May and Sep - Nov. In general, though, we will try to accommodate all requests. Just talk to us.

No. After receiving your booking request, our local partners have 24 hours to confirm availability or provide an alternative option.

Yes - all partner lodges have bathrooms in the rooms.

Usually our bookings include full board i.e. breakfast, lunch and dinner. If anything else is the case it will be clearly stated in your itinerary.